Median Earnings (1yr)
$41,066
73rd percentile
Median Debt
$29,971
11% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.73
Manageable
Sample Size
29
Limited data

Analysis

Wilmington University's Liberal Arts program shows surprisingly strong outcomes compared to similar programs nationwide—graduates earn about $5,000 more in their first year than the national median and maintain that advantage as they progress in their careers. While it ranks 60th percentile among Delaware's three liberal arts programs, the debt load of roughly $30,000 is actually below both state and national medians, resulting in a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio under 0.75.

The 22% earnings growth from year one to year four suggests graduates are finding career momentum, moving from $41,000 to nearly $50,000. That trajectory matters more than the starting salary for a liberal arts degree, which by nature prepares students for diverse career paths rather than a single high-paying track. The relatively modest debt means graduates aren't financially strapped while they build their careers.

The major caveat: this data comes from fewer than 30 recent graduates, so individual outcomes could vary significantly. But the pattern here—below-average debt with above-average earnings—suggests this program delivers better value than most liberal arts degrees. If your child is committed to a liberal arts education and considering Delaware schools, Wilmington's combination of reasonable cost and solid earning potential makes it worth serious consideration.

Where Wilmington University Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all liberal arts and sciences, general studies and humanities bachelors's programs nationally

Wilmington UniversityOther liberal arts and sciences, general studies and humanities programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Wilmington University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Wilmington University graduates earn $41k, placing them in the 73th percentile of all liberal arts and sciences, general studies and humanities bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Delaware

Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Delaware (3 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Wilmington University$41,066$49,894$29,9710.73
Delaware State University$35,998$47,980$24,9800.69
National Median$36,340—$27,0000.74

Other Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities Programs in Delaware

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Delaware schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Delaware State University
Dover
$10,314$35,998$24,980

About This Data

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)

Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Wilmington University, approximately 26% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.

Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.

Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.

Sample Size: Based on 29 graduates with reported earnings and 49 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.